Soil scientist, H Henry Janzen has published a research paper rethinking how we talk about carbon in the ground. Instead of “sequestration,” which implies locking carbon away permanently, they’re proposing a shift to “stewardship” – a more holistic approach that considers soil’s dynamic, living nature.
The term “sequestration” entered soil science vocabulary in the 1990s, referring to removing carbon from the atmosphere and storing it long-term in soil. However, recent research reveals that most soil carbon remains potentially active, subject to microbial reshuffling and eventual CO2 release. There may be no truly permanent, invulnerable carbon pool in soil.
Given this evolving understanding, “stewardship” may be a more appropriate concept than “sequestration.” Stewardship implies nurturing soil carbon to sustain multiple land functions, not just climate mitigation. It considers all soil carbon, not only “stable” fractions.
Key aspects of soil carbon stewardship include considering multiple functions beyond climate, valuing all soil carbon forms, taking a systems view of carbon’s full cycle, preserving existing carbon stocks, long-term thinking, local adaptation, and community involvement.
Adopting a stewardship mindset could reshape soil carbon research and management. It might shift focus to maintaining dynamic carbon pools, developing site-specific strategies, establishing long-term monitoring, preserving carbon-rich ecosystems, considering trade-offs between carbon storage and other functions, and engaging diverse stakeholders in soil carbon decisions.
Beyond practical implications, “stewardship” poses a compelling question: For whom do we care for soil carbon? This invites reflection on our relationship with land and responsibility to future generations. While “sequestration” implies a technical fix, “stewardship” frames soil carbon management as part of living well on Earth. It connects to ancient traditions of land care while embracing modern scientific understanding.
As we face global challenges, rethinking our language around soil carbon could help inspire more holistic, effective approaches to sustaining Earth’s critical carbon cycles. Stewardship offers a path forward, grounded in both science and ethics.
For more information read H. Henry Janzen’s research paper in the British Society of Soil Science Journal.
